Pullman’s primary artistic work in the book arts is in the area of design bindings. She creates unique bindings for specific books using materials such as leather, wood, handmade paper, and eggshells. Her high expectation of craftsmanship pushes her to improve technique and explore new approaches. She is continually intrigued by the opportunity to use new materials and enjoys using historical elements in her work. For Pullman, the book is part of a unique artistic medium that will never die out or be fully replaced.
Book Artist and Teacher
Pullman is a faculty member in Book Arts at the College of Visual Arts in Saint Paul. She has taught a variety of workshops nationwide and, since 1997, has been conducting classes in papermaking and bookbinding at the Minnesota Center for Book Arts. Pullman has worked in printmaking, papermaking and as a book and paper conservator. She has been displaying her work in galleries for decades and has participated in exhibitions throughout the United States as well as in England and France. The recipient of several prestigious awards, Pullman was the winner of the 2012 Design Award of the Helen Warren DeGolyer Triennial Competition for American Bookbinding.
Book Artist Exhibit
An exhibit celebrating Pullman’s work runs January 18 through February 24 in the second floor literary commons of the Open Book, 1011 Washington Avenue South in Minneapolis. A reception showcasing the exhibit and honoring Pullman takes place Friday, February 8 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at MCBA, with a brief program and presentation at 6:30 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public, and features live music, hors d’oeuvres, and wine. Exhibits of Pullman’s work will also be featured at other venues throughout the state this year, including Saint Paul’s Central Library this spring.
Pullman will receive special recognition and an award at the 25th annual Minnesota Book Awards Gala on Saturday, April 13, 2013 at the event’s new location—the Hilton Minneapolis. Awards will be presented that evening to winners in eight book categories (Children’s Literature, General Nonfiction, Genre Fiction, Memoir & Creative Nonfiction, Minnesota, Novel & Short Story, Poetry, and Young People’s Literature) and the Kay Sexton Award, sponsored by Common Good Books. Gala tickets will go on sale in late January.